Newsdesk

The senior civil engineer in charge of major repair work at Wemyss Bay has paid tribute to those involved in the reconstruction project as the pier prepares to re-open to Rothesay ferry traffic.

Brian Sydney from Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd was speaking the day before the resumption of service to and from Wemyss Bay by MVs Bute and Argyle - and at the end of repair and improvement work worth £6 million.

As part of the investment, CMAL installed a new fendering system to replace the pier’s old timber fenders, reconstructed the concrete pier end, refurbished the linkspan and installed a corrosion protection system.

The sea bed around the harbour has also been dredged to improve access to the pier for berthing.

Mr Sydney said: “We are delighted to be reopening the pier so that ferry services can start again in time for the Easter weekend as planned. The project team has worked hard to make this happen.

“Our principal contractor, George Leslie Ltd, in particular has done extremely well in keeping the project running to programme, especially given the storms throughout the winter.”

John McNaught, managing director at George Leslie Ltd, added: “Delivering the project on time reflects huge credit on the project team, who battled through the very worst of the winter weather, including the ten officially classified storms, to meet the critical Easter weekend re-opening deadline.

“Our determination to meet this key milestone reflects our continued drive to make a positive contribution in the communities where we work.”

You can view a slideshow of pictures telling the story of the work at Wemyss Bay by clicking here - while you’ll find full details of ferry times between Rothesay and Wemyss Bay from Good Friday, March 25 - also the first day of CalMac Ferries’ summer timetable - at CalMac’s website.